Kern County Obituaries

Catherine (Kay) Radovanich Kates

Submitted by Don Stowell; 13 Feb 2008

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Source Unknown; Date Unknown
 
March 2, 1919 – Oct. 4, 2004
Catherine (Kay) Radovanich Kates, 85, died on Oct. 4 in Bakersfield. 
Kay was born on March 2, 1919, in Chicago and after her parents Joseph and Anna 
died in her youth, with her usual gumption she joined the Women's Army Air Corp 
during World War II. She met her husband of 60 years, George W. Kates, when both 
of them were in the Air Force and stationed at Tampa Drew Air Force Base. 
At first sight of Kay, George told her he loved her and that he was going to marry 
her. It was the best decision he ever made and shaped his life for the better as 
she was "the wind beneath his wings." Kay supported and encouraged George through 
law school and his career as an attorney, banker and real estate developer.  Kay 
and George lived in Florida Veteran housing at University of Florida; Miami, 
Florida; Freeport, Bahamas; Stallion Springs and Bakersfield.
Kay was the quintessential 1950's wife and mom. She made a big breakfast every 
morning, her children George Jr. and Kathe came home after school to her lovingly 
greeting them in her fresh clothes and make-up, a sparkling clean house, a 
delicious snack, help with homework, card and board games.
Kay was a Cub, Brownie and Girl Scout leader and Scout Commissioner of the Bahamas. 
She was comfortable either camping with her family and friends or graciously 
entertaining on a grand scale. Kay's family and friends could never doubt her love,
loyalty and compassion for them. They were strengthened by knowing they were not 
only in Kay's good hands, but God's good hands with all of her prayers for them. 
Kay not only selflessly fostered and delighted in her family's successes, but when 
they failed, she helped them to pick themselves up.
Kay loved babies (especially her grandchildren) and the flowers in her garden.  
Kay is deeply beloved and survived by her husband, George W. Kates; son, George W. 
Kates Jr.; daughter and son-in-law Kathe and Warren Davis; and grandchildren, Kadi 
and Jeff Davis. She was preceded in death by all of her six siblings.
No funeral services will be held.